Wallpaper requires that there is adhesive on the backing so it is able to attach to the wall. There are two options that you could use, you can either buy it already pre-mixed, or you can mix the wallpaper paste yourself then apply it to the wall. Some wallpaper come already pre-pasted, and works with water and this activated a coating on the back, while other wallpaper types require that you apply paste to the wall.
Mixing the paste
When mixing paste, make sure that you stir well; you will want to stir the paste longer than what is suggested by the manufacturer to ensure that there are no lumps present. The use of a wooden dowel will make for a great stirring tool. Keep in mind to also stir the paste from time to time while you are wallpapering to keep it mixed well.
Pasting the wallpaper
When pasting the wall paper, make sure to keep the paper as flat as possible. This will help prevent the wallpaper from curling, put a weight on each end before you start. You will need to cover the wallpaper evenly with paste. Then you will fold it into a loose, crease-free concertina as you move along from one end of the wallpaper to the other.
No mess wallpaper
Keeping your work area a no mess zone, you will want to protect it from the paste. You will need to paste each length in the same position, and then flush with the edge of the pasting table. This will help to avoid getting paste on the right side of the table. Make sure that you wipe the table with clean, warm water between lengths.
Help with pre-pasted wallpaper
To activate the paste in pre-pasted wallpaper, you will need to soak it. To do this neatly and easily, you will loosely roll up a cut length with the pattern on the inside so that the water will come into contact with the entire pasted surface easily, and this will activate the paste.
You can also use the technique of folding the soaked paper. You will let the soaked wallpaper unroll on a pasting table. Next you will fold each of the ends back on itself into the middle of the length so that the pattern is on the outside. This will help prevent the pasted side from drying out before you have the chance to apply it to the wall.
How to handle damp wallpaper
When you are transferring the wallpaper from the container in which it is being soaked to a pasting table, the patterned side of the wallpaper may rub against the side of the table, and this could damage the wallpaper. To prevent this from happening, soften the edges of the table by covering them with two or three layers of masking tape, providing a smooth surface.
You can also anchor the edges, so make sure that you have a small jar of pre-mixed paste available and handy as you prepare to hang a length of wallpaper. The edges of the pre-pasted wallpaper will sometimes dry out too quickly, and you may need to reapply a small amount of paste before you attempt to hang them.
Clever way to store soaking wallpaper
While your wallpaper is soaking, you can hang it from a pole that is held between two chairs, a broom handle is a good choice. Keep in mind to always remove a length from the same end then move the other ends along, so that you take the one that has soaked the longest.
A money saving tip
To make use of your kitchen table if you don’t have a pasting table, you can spread a plastic sheet over it. Make sure that the plastic sheet is held tight by taping it securely to the corners and the table legs to keep it from sliding.
Resources: Decorating Hints & Tips, Solutions to Help Improve Your Home
